The Pacific Islands News Association (PINA)  has called on the Government of Samoa to lift the temporary ban on the Samoa Observer immediately.

PINA, which is the collection of media organisations throughout the Pacific, said it was concerned over the Government of Samoa’s decision to ban the Samoa Observer, the country’s longest-serving independent newspaper.

In a statement, PINA said this action represents a serious threat to media freedom, public access to information,  and democratic accountability in Samoa and the wider Pacific region.

PINA said the government can refer any concerns through the Media Council as required under the Media   Council Act 2015 and engage constructively with JAWS and the Samoa media sector.

PINA urged the Government of Samoa to uphold its commitment to open dialogue and transparent governance.

PINA noted that Samoa already has a legally mandated and independent mechanism to address concerns about media accuracy, fairness, or ethical conduct.

Under the Media Council Act 2015, Samoa’s Media Council is empowered to receive and hear complaints from the public or government, determine whether a media outlet has breached the Code of Practice, appoint a small investigation committee to examine complaints and provide redress where reporting is found to be harmful or inaccurate.

PINA said the Act clearly identified the Journalists Association of Samoa (JAWS) as the associated body that helped establish this mechanism to ensure openness, fairness, and accountability in media–public relations. Although the Council faces capacity challenges, it is the legitimate and lawful avenue for managing media complaints in Samoa, not punitive bans.

PINA emphasised that disagreements with media reporting are best resolved through the Media Council’s complaint processes, constructive engagement with media organisations, and providing greater support for ethical journalism and professional standards.

“Banning a newspaper is disproportionate, unnecessary, and undermines press freedom. It sets a troubling precedent for the region and risks silencing independent voices essential to accountable governance,” said PINA.

PINA said the government must uphold Samoa’s democratic values and its commitment to a free and independent press.

PINA stands ready to support dialogue, mediation, and capacity-building to strengthen constructive relations between media and government in Samoa and across the Pacific.